BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Health in the Cordillera Administrative Region, through Project Namnama, has expanded its services to schools in continuing efforts to address sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases and curb the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
DOH Health Program Officer II Mark Gonzales Benter said they are now conducting HIV testing in schools, as nearly 60 to 70 percent of the recorded HIV cases belong to the 15-to-34 age group.
“The trend now of HIV cases is getting younger… We are strategizing, calibrating our strategies, and targeting those who are really vulnerable. One of these is our young key population, which is why we’re going to schools to provide services, to find those who are HIV-positive or reactive,” Benter said in an interview.
The DOH, in partnership with the Saint Louis University Supreme Student Council, conducted free HIV testing at SLU on February 13 and 14.
“Through this project, we really want to shed light, provide resources, and make testing and treatment more accessible to those who want it, and especially to those who need it,” said Case Manager Justin Andrei Chan.
He also emphasized that it is time to destigmatize and normalize HIV testing and make it a routine part of prioritizing health.
Meanwhile, students showed a positive outlook on the project.
Joshua said that he took the test because it was free and would help him know his medical status.
“It’s free, for your own good, your family, and your loved ones,” he said, encouraging others to take the HIV test as well.
Mitch, a mother of three, also expressed her support for the program. She said she agrees with having these tests conducted in universities for the welfare of the children, adding, “it’s better to be tested earlier than to wait until it’s already severe.”
The DOH assured the public that the HIV tests are free and the results are treated with confidentiality.
Project Namnama (Nurturing Awareness, Mobilizing Networks, and Advocating to Mitigate the Impact of AIDS in the Cordillera) highlights commitments to address HIV/AIDS and STIs in the region. [JDP/DEG/Janine Laureta and Je Dannang – PIA-SLU Interns]
